Origin/Source

Glycoin® natural is the protective and re-activating substance of the resurrection plant Myrothamnus flabellifolia, which can be found in the deserts of southern Africa. Resurrection plants have the unique and fascinating ability to survive for long periods without a single drop of water. During this time, the resurrection plant totally desiccates. Then the leaves of the plant shrink, appearing withered and dead. But appearances are deceptive; every time, as soon as the rains start, the plant comes back to life. It miraculously re-greens within a few hours. After the rains stop, the Myrothamnus plant dries out again, waiting for the next wonder of resurrection. The stress-protection molecule Glycoin® natural enables this fascinating existence and survival strategy of the resurrection plant Myrothamnus flabellifolia. During total desiccation, Glycoin® natural protects the plant´s structure from damage. When the rains come, Glycoin® natural acts as an energy-booster and activates the plant´s re-greening.

Myrothamnus during dry season (left) and after rain (right).

Glycoin® natural is also found in salt tolerant blue-green algae, so called cyanobacteria, like the spiral shaped micro algae Spirulina. Like the desert resurrection plant, blue-green algae use Glycoin® natural as a stress-protection molecule to adapt to the osmotic stress of their habitat.